Installation quality may be a factor in poly leaks, but in most cases installation does not appear to be the primary cause. Factors contributing to system leaks include degeneration of piping and/or fittings, water quality, chlorine levels, poor installation and age. Over time, some or all of these factors may contribute to system failure. So even with perfect installation leaks may occur.
Kitec plumbing consists of plastic-coated aluminum pipes and brass fittings. Kitec brass fittings are defective because they dezincify. Dezincification is a process whereby zinc leaches from brass, which is an alloy of copper and zinc, thereby creating a white powdery buildup on the inside of the fitting and a weakening of the brass fitting. Dezincification can lead to, among other things, restricted water flow and an increased likelihood of the brass fitting leaking or breaking.
Imported, Low grade, recycled Copper ,water quality and age is the main cause of many of the repeated water leaks. A nationwide surge in copper pinhole leaks began about 12 years ago, after the Environmental Protection Agency changed its regulations for purifying drinking water.The changes included allowing the use of chloramine, a chlorine and ammonia-blend, instead of chlorine.
Galvanized pipes build up with sediment on the inside, making the inside diameter of the pipe smaller and smaller over time, eventually to the point where water flow is unusable. These pipes also corrode at the joints, which can lead to leaks.